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NZ wraps Fishy flavour Brave drivers Thousands up safety to marketing keep flock to the message campaign moving fairways

The newspaper of Group Issue 60 Autumn 2005

Relief convoy rolls into New Orleans USA lending its support to America’s emergency services. Coach USA helps mass evacuation after Hurricane Katrina

by Steven Stewart away from the worst-affected areas. s the people of New “We had a tremendous response AOrleans reeled under from our employees at Coach USA, the devastation caused and our support team worked closely by Hurricane Katrina, Pennsylvania, New York and West with the Federal Government and Stagecoach rolled up its Virginia – helped evacuate some of the offered them every assistance they thousands of people made homeless could.” sleeves to help with the by the disaster. The US Federal Government asked unprecedented relief effort Coach USA employees also donated for assistance from coach and school in the stricken Gulf Coast. bottled water, food items and toiletries, operators as thousands of square On hearing the plight of thousands which were loaded onto the vehicles. miles of Louisiana and Mississippi of residents stranded without food or The aid was delivered to the American remained under water. water, many unable to flee the city Red Cross to be distributed to those in The Coach USA team also assisted before the hurricane swept ashore, the need. the Federal Emergency Management company’s Coach USA division dis- , Stagecoach Group Agency in the New Orleans area in the patched a convoy of 12 coaches and 24 Chief Executive, said: “Hurricane immediate aftermath of the hurricane. drivers to the bruised and battered Katrina caused devastation and human The exhausted evacuees from New ‘Jewel of the South’. suffering on a massive scale and one of Orleans were eventually driven to The support team – from operations the immediate priorities was ensuring safety in various designated relief areas in Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, people were transported to safety throughout Texas. The sight of the davastated Gulf Coast that met the Coach USA teams.

Stagecoach has teamed up with make our collective operations more Singapore-based transport group efficient, putting us in an excellent ComfortDelGro to create a new inter-city United bid challenges the train position to compete with the train and coach venture to compete with rail attract more people away from their cars services in . largest land transport company, owns viable alternative to the train. Stagecoach Group Chief Executive and onto our inter-city services.” The venture will operate the Scottish the remaining 65%. Bus services between and Brian Souter said: “.com and ComfortDelGro Managing Director services of Stagecoach’s megabus.com Tom Wileman, Managing Director of will be increased to every 15 are two powerful and Group CEO Kua Hong Pak said the and Motorvator, and ComfortDelGro’s Stagecoach Scotland, is overseeing the minutes daily to match the train service brands in Scotland that have established firm was pleased to be entering into the Scottish Citylink, offering customers new operation. on First ScotRail’s flagship line and a loyal base of customers in different agreement with Stagecoach. more frequent services, faster journey The new business will be the leading hourly services will run on most other inter-city travel markets. This new joint He added: “By working together and times and improved quality on the road. provider of express coach services in routes. venture will allow us to develop the leveraging on our two strong brands we Under the deal, Stagecoach owns Scotland, with expected annual revenues The coach journey time between quality of our products and offer an even will be able to operate more efficiently, 35% of the share capital and is responsi- of around £18 million. It will create a and Edinburgh will also be cut better range of excellent value travel improve the quality of our services and ble for operational management. stronger business to help make coach to three and a half hours, less than the options for our customers. focus our efforts on jointly growing our ComfortDelGro, the world’s second travel between key population centres a time it takes by train. “We believe the new venture will business.” Students urged to Mega-drive to revive think pink by Adam Rideout the heart of London

Students at the University of Warwick are enjoying brighter days 100,000 free seats on offer through megabus.com thanks to the introduction of a dozen pink and purple double- decker by Stagecoach in fforts to entice tourists by Steven Stewart attractions the city has to offer.” More than 2.6 million passengers Warwickshire. Eback into London in the The 100,000 free seats are available have used the service since the first The usual livery was deemed wake of the terrorist for Monday to Thursday journeys to trial route was launched in August unsuitable for the university popu- doubt that discretionary leisure travel and from London – excluding internal 2003 and a national network went live lation so Warwickshire’s Marketing attacks of July 7 have been to London was affected in the and cross-border services to and from in March 2004. Manager Adam Rideout devised boosted by megabus.com. immediate aftermath of the locations in Scotland – until With fares starting as low as £1, something he believed they could The UK’s market-leading low-cost bombings. December 12. Customers taking up megabus.com runs a network of inter- identify with more. inter-city coach service offered “The good news is that, over the the free seats offer pay only the city services covering more than 30 Adam explained: “Pink is an 100,000 free seats into the capital past few weeks, there is evidence that standard 50p booking fee locations across the UK. outrageous colour for a big bus, after media reports suggested that the customer confidence is growing and Passenger numbers for This summer it introduced a £6.5 but we wanted an identity that the bombings had affected the level of tourists are starting to return to the megabus.com, which celebrated its million fleet of new state-of-the-art students could feel is their own. leisure trips to the city. capital. We hope our offer of 100,000 second anniversary this summer, have double-decker coaches with air-con- We primarily run a service to and Brian Souter, Chief Executive of free seats will give people a massive risen by nearly 25% in the last six ditioning, toilets and more comfort- from the University of Warwick Stagecoach Group, said: “There is no incentive to come and see the great months. able seats. especially for them. As such, it follows that we want them to feel at home on our buses and we didn’t think the normal Stagecoach The Swinging Sixties may be a livery was for them.” Flower power puts ‘petal’ to the metal distant memory, but the spirit of the The university service, which decade lives on in Chesterfield usually runs every 12 minutes, has through an exciting flower-power also been re-named Unibus. It revival. replaces the X12 route number Passengers in the town have had with U1, which is more user their journeys brightened up by friendly for students travelling Stagecoach’s new floral double- between Sydenham and decker bus. Designed by local art Leamington and the university. students, the distinctive vehicle was Radios have also been intro- the firm’s contribution to the East duced on the buses, which Midlands in Bloom competition. students can catch up to 2.20am on Many local companies offered Fridays and Saturdays. their support, but Stagecoach’s Though mainly used by effort, which proves you can say it students, the buses – which link with flowers, has been by far the Sydenham, Leamington, most eye-catching. Kenilworth and Warwick – are also Competition judges toured the available for the general public. region in the bus to inspect the quality of local flower displays and were highly impressed with the Back to vehicle. And everyone was delighted when the Derbyshire town clinched the silver runner-up the future medal in the “small city” category, despite never having entered Cwmffrwdoer Primary School before. recently welcomed employees from Wales, Derbyshire’s ‘blooming’ fantastic bus. who gave the children an insight into travel both past and present. Contacts Although it was a wet and windy day, the children had a The Editor, On Stage, Stagecoach Group, Mark Whittle 01392 889747 chance to explore a 1964 AEC 10 Dunkeld Road, Perth PH1 5TW. National Transport Tokens Sajda Khan 01254 680180 Double Decker complete with Tel: +44 (0)1738 442111, Fax: +44 (0)1738 580407 its own ‘clippy’ and a 2005 www.stagecoachgroup.com UK Rail Neoplan megabus. If you have a story for On Stage, please get in touch Lisa Davies 0207 620 5892 Our picture shows Depot with your local contact below: Stephen Wade 01983 812591 Inspector Kelvin Harnett, Driver Stagecoach Supertram Julia Shaw 0114 2759888 Tal Jenkins, Mayor of Torfaen Stagecoach Group Steven Stewart 01738 642040 Lyn Urwin and Conductress Val UK Bus Overseas Cruten. Scotland Lisa Henry 01383 516454 North America Scotland Allan Henry 01292 613515 North East Roger Bowker 001 201 225 7581 Kate Williams 0191 567 5251 North Central Dale Moser 001 847 390 5800 Colin Nicholson 01772 255752 Jim Devlin 001 705 748 1170 Stagecoach Karen Coventry 0161 276 2727 Phil Cartwright 01246 222018 New Zealand Dennis Elliot 00 649 309 3500 Stagecoach in Oxfordshire Chris Child 01865 405511 On Stage is published four times a year. Advertising connected Stagecoach in Warwickshire Adam Rideout 01604 702112 directly or indirectly with Stagecoach is accepted. Charitable adverts will be included without charge, otherwise rates on request. Stagecoach East 01604 702112 Adam Rideout On Stage is distributed free to Stagecoach staff. Public subscrip- Stagecoach West Anthony Evans 01443 687682 tions are available at £12 for one year or £20 for two years. Cheque Stagecoach Wales Anthony Evans 01443 687682 payable to Stagecoach Group plc at the editorial address. The 020 8477 7249 Editor is unable to enter into individual correspondence concern- Benjamin Franklin ing the affairs of The Stagecoach Group. Helen Martin 01243 536161 Stagecoach South Helen Martin 01243 536161 Designed by Catchline Communications Group, Scotland.

2 Autumn 2005 Ticket deal tempts drivers Investment as parking shortage bites extends easy access Motorists in and around Folkestone “We understand that with the have been discovering the joys of trav- eventual loss of so many car park The commitment to make travel easier elling by bus after Stagecoach South spaces motorists may struggle to find for people with disabilities in the UK reduced the price of a weekly ticket. reasonably priced parking,” said Sam has had another major boost with a The move was made to encourage Wigley, Stagecoach South Operations further £3.5 million being invested in commuters to use the bus after car Manager. a fleet of new accessible coaches. parks closed to make way for the “We hope that we can reduce the The latest order, for 25 coaches development of the new Bride Hall stress of driving by offering this new which provide easy access for wheel- Shopping Centre in the town. incentive to try the bus.” chair passengers through the main The Folkestone megarider plus Folkestone Town Centre entrance, brings the total Stagecoach ticket now lets passengers travel from Management Ltd is supporting the ini- investment in new buses in the UK for Capel, Palmarsh, Hawkinge and Hythe tiative, with leaflets being distributed 2005-06 to just under £60 million and for £9 a week and can be bought from throughout the town to let motorists more than 500 vehicles. Sam Wigley and Town Centre Management’s Eloise Hassall with a sample of the new discounted ticket. bus drivers on any of the routes. know of the new ticket. Les Warneford, Managing Director of Stagecoach UK Bus, said the new Profile coaches would be introduced on the inter-urban express services in the UK. “Accessibility is an important factor in providing attractive Fresh, functional... services,” Les said. “As far as possible within the resources we have available, we are committed to making it easier for people to use our buses and coaches. “We are investing millions of pounds every year on new vehicles as and at your fingertips part of our programme to make all our buses in the UK fully accessible. These new vehicles are the best New Group website offers even more information solution in the market in terms of providing wheelchair access on nvestors, customers and other key coaches.” Istakeholders now have even more The Profile coaches, based on a information at their fingertips with Volvo B7R chassis, incorporate a wheelchair lift in the entrance which the launch of Stagecoach Group’s folds out of the way when not in use. new corporate website. Designed to be easily operated by the Fully updated with a fresh design and driver, it gives access to a space improved functionality, stagecoachgroup.com alongside the entrance where there includes: are secure fixings to hold the wheel- chair and its user safely in position. • Clearer design and navigation for users Kevin Wood, Sales Director for • New and updated content, including a manufacturer , said: “In devel- summary of the company’s history, and oping this innovative solution to more detail on Group policies and per- carrying wheelchair passengers, we formance were mindful of the need to make • More comprehensive information for boarding and alighting as easy as investors, such as a fully searchable possible, and to provide a vehicle archive of Stagecoach Group Regulatory which could be used with existing News Service announcements dating back roadside and bus station infrastruc- to 2001 ture.” • Worldwide Contacts tool, making it easier The new coaches are scheduled for customers to contact Stagecoach Steve Holmes congratulates Jason Beck on his new found driving skills. for delivery between November 2005 companies around the globe and February 2006. They follow a • A Media Image Library, with a selection of batch of conventional B7R Profiles high-resolution photography from the Editor hits the headlines – not the kerb! that joined the fleet at the start of the Group’s operations as well as company year and were used to upgrade logos and pictures of Directors Voicing his ambition over the airwaves to drive a by Helen Martin services in north-east Scotland. • Online access to On Stage double-decker bus led to a day to remember for local • More comprehensive links to Stagecoach radio News Editor Jason Beck. consumer websites and other external sites His secret desire inspired Stagecoach South staff to offer him the opportunity to get behind the wheel at Jason said: “Reversing was definitely the hardest to Malcolm’s The website has been developed in line with Thorney Island disused airfield, offered as a safe master and I can now understand why trainee drivers the Royal National Institute for the Blind’s ‘See It location to test his skills by the Regional Recruitment take a seven-week course to qualify for their PCV new role Right’ accessibility criteria, allowing navigation by Team of 47th Regiment of the Royal Artillery. licence and learn everything else needed to become a bus driver. However, the bus has an incredible turning screen readers and voice browsers. Instead of a simple drive along the runway Jason, National Transport Tokens circle and the power assisted steering makes it very Steven Stewart, Stagecoach Group Head of of Wave 105 FM, was really put through his paces by Limited in Blackburn has light to control.” Media and Public Affairs, said: “The new corporate Stagecoach’s driving instructor Steve appointed Malcolm Daughtrey as Much to Jason’s relief the bus was not equipped website is a major step forward and is part of our Holmes. the new Managing Director. with L-plates so he didn’t have to drive it back to the ongoing drive to improve communications with Cones were placed at intervals to represent bus He replaces John Robinson, depot. However, his day ended on a high note with a our investors, customers and other key stakehold- stops so he had to gently slow and stop the Volvo who is retiring after 17 years. trip across the airfield in one of the 47th Regiment’s ers. The site showcases the strength of our Olympian as though approaching real bus stops, Formerly head of business Stormer Anti-Aircraft vehicles. business as a market leader in delivering innova- before tackling a reverse manoeuvre. development at APCOA Parking tion in public transport.” UK, one of the UK’s largest car parking operators, Malcolm has Pats on the back are in the offing as and day out – and they still manage to significant public sector experi- once again South West Trains has Passengers choose star staff smile and assist despite some of the ence. asked passengers to pick out the huge challenges they face.” He will work closely with the people who give exceptional staff across our network. said: “We are committed to delivering Every year, thousands of customer UK Bus operating companies and customer service. This included all our people on the the highest standards of customer service professionals celebrate with our rail companies to further National Customer Service Week platforms, behind the ticket office service and it is only through our staff National Customer Service Week, develop the transport token was held between October 3 and 9 window, cleaners and staff on board that we can achieve this. which aims to highlight the crucial business and strengthen relation- and gave the public the opportunity trains. “This recognises what our people at role that members of staff play in ships with local authorities and to recognise and applaud members of Managing Director Graham Eccles stations and on trains do for us day in providing a service to passengers. Passenger Transport Executives.

Autumn 2005 3 Big Bus Show’s £6.5m fleet charity boost bound for Hampshire’s Rowans Hospice is cheques to Samantha Jones at the Merseyside £1,300 better off thanks to those who hospice. organised the Big Bus Show at the Just months after its acquisition Portsmouth bus depot. If you have been up to something of Limited, The event marked the 90th that has helped your local community Stagecoach has announced a anniversary of Southdown Motor then we’d like to hear about it. multi-million pound investment in its Merseyside bus opera- Services and the 25th anniversary of Your On Stage contact is listed on p2. the current bus operators Stagecoach. tions. Our photograph shows A £6.5 million fleet of 75 Stagecoach Operations Manager A tale modern low-floor buses was David Rossiter presenting a special to tell? scheduled for delivery through commemorative montage and September and October and is part of an order announced earlier this year. The remaining vehicles form a new £3.9 million order with and will be introduced in February and New Zealand is all March 2006. Managing Director for Stagecoach UK Bus Les Warneford said the move was a clear sign of the firm’s ongoing commitment to public transport in Merseyside. He added: “We believe we wrapped up in safety have a winning combination of investment, innovation, strong marketing, first-class customer by Linda Ann Martin service and operational Occupational Health Nurse, expertise that can attract more people back aboard buses and Stagecoach build a successful local business.” Stagecoach operates nearly t was safety first in New 300 vehicles and employs IZealand when Stagecoach around 800 people in in Wellington and Auckland Merseyside. combined with the Accident Compensation Commission (ACC) to promote Safety Week. Breakfast The theme was All Wrapped Up in Safety with bubble wrap as the radio show chosen symbol. And among the many promo- tions during the week was the rears up unusual sight of a bus in Wellington City centre completely covered in Manchester-based radio station the stuff! Key103 has commandeered the Every week 1,900 New rear of 12 Stagecoach double Zealanders are seriously injured in deckers for a high-profile avoidable accidents and the Safety breakfast show campaign. Week in August was an opportunity The station’s marketing to tackle this terrible statistic. manager Nadine Callan Both Stagecoach Wellington and explained the bus was an Stagecoach Auckland took up the obvious choice in driving challenge with enthusiasm. The bus awareness as the creative used wrapping was an ACC/Stagecoach It’s a wrap! The bubble-wrapped bus parked on Lambton Quay, Wellington. in the campaign worked initiative and it took an entire day perfectly on the double-decker to wrap and then unwrap the bus. It During the week, all Stagecoach loss challenge. The Audit Team also Stagecoach’s involvement in ‘Safety rears. certainly caught the eye of passers- depots ran promotions with a safety wore bubble wrap vests when Week’ that it awarded one of the She added: “It’s impossible by and was a great way to increase quiz, safety displays, posters and checking buses. $NZ1000 prizes for the company to to miss, whether you’re sitting public awareness of Safety Week. pamphlets and a ’Spare Tyre’ weight The ACC was so impressed with purchase safety equipment. in your car or just walking around town. The campaign has already created a real buzz around Manchester, with our Fast tracking to the top breakfast show presenters being inundated with text messages from listeners bus Spotting and encouraging homegrown potential for management within the spotting.” talent has been paying dividends for company,” said Andrew Dyer, Stagecoach South, which now has half Managing Director of Stagecoach interim Marketing Manager its depots managed by graduates of its South. “Their experience and Allie Johns said Tridents dis- own Staff Development Training knowledge of the industry ensures that playing this creative all operate Programme. our network of services operates as effi- on high volume, high The latest addition to the manage- ciently as possible.” frequency routes to and from ment team, and seventh successful The programme offers a fast track to the city, so millions of people candidate to emerge from the a managerial position. The seven in Manchester could see the programme, is Dave Bardwell, who has people who trained with the scheme advert daily. been promoted to Acting Engineering and are now managers took less than Allie added: “It just goes to Manager for Stagecoach in . two years, on average, to become demonstrate the power of bus “I’m very pleased with the opportu- depot operations or engineering advertising, particularly for Welcome aboard! Andrew Dyer welcomes Dave Bardwell to the management team with, from left, nities created for staff who may join us managers after completing the locally-based brands.” Chris Adams, Rosemary Blair, Jason Bush, Colin Stratford, Robbie Hall and Graham Harmer. as engineers and drivers but show programme. 4 Autumn 2005 Rugby duo’s Sandra leads the way in Dover amazing Sandra Rushton, Engineering Clerk Dover bus depot for five years, gain an administrative equivalent,” for Stagecoach in Dover, has studied for the qualification part he said. safety record become the first person in the South time over 14 months. Sandra supports the team of 28 East to gain her OCR Level 2 NVQ Her boss, Engineering Manager engineers, bodybuilders and Shane Gray and Mathew Hirons are for Administration. Bob Taylor, said he was delighted cleaners that ensures the safety and the first bus drivers at Stagecoach in Sandra, who has worked at the with Sandra’s achievement. reliability of the fleet of 80 coaches, Warwickshire’s Rugby depot to “We have a large percentage of single and double-decker buses that achieve five-year safe driving drivers and engineering staff that provide vital commuter and school awards. Sandra – scoring an administrative has passed NVQ qualifications, but services in the Dover/Folkestone The safety conscious pair have first in the South East Sandra is the first in our region to region. both driven for approximately 10,000 hours without a blameworthy accident. The Road Operators Safety Council annually gives awards to such drivers and Stagecoach Rugby Warsaw helps drivers already has 29 employees who qualify for a one-year certificate. In a special tribute to Shane and Mathew, whose combined service with Stagecoach totals more than 10 years, Rugby Operations Manager Bash Rafiq said: “They are good maintain pole position team members committed to the job. When it is appreciated that they drive an average of 2,000 hours a tagecoach’s UK services by Steven Stewart year their record is superb. “My congratulations go to all 32 Shave a Polish flavour drivers who have a safe driving after a bid to recruit 100 “The excellent links we have put award – it’s great news for the depot experienced bus drivers in place in Poland will help ensure and, of course, for our passengers.” from the Eastern European we have a full team of professional country. drivers behind the wheel at our The recruitment drive, which is growing bus operations here in the supported by the trade unions, is UK.” David plans part of the company’s commitment Stagecoach has put in place a to delivering a consistent, reliable comprehensive selection and a busy level of service and complements its training programme to ensure the other UK recruitment campaigns. best drivers are recruited. All drivers Stagecoach has been working in are interviewed, have a series of retirement partnership with Warsaw-based medical and background checks, Polish Transport Holdings to and undertake a detailed driving David Xavier has meticulously identify and train the new assessment. maintained the bodywork of employees following the expansion The successful candidates then Stagecoach’s fleet of 72 buses of the European Union. take a 12-week English language at Basingstoke for more than The first group of around 20 course to ensure they have the right 13 years. Polish drivers started work in communication skills to meet the Paws for thought: Stagecoach Operations Manager Bernie Reed and Squire with puppy walker Moira However, now he has Cheltenham and Manchester in needs of passengers. Davidson and Henri. decided to retire and swap August and Stagecoach expects to On in the UK, the drivers depot life for more foreign recruit a total of 100 drivers by the are provided with a further two holidays… and time on the end of the year. weeks’ off-road training, including fairways improving his UK Bus takes the lead Bob Montgomery, Stagecoach route familiarisation, before they handicap. UK Bus Service Performance get behind the wheel for real. David (65) joined the 20- Director, said: “Bus drivers have Stagecoach has also put in place strong team of mechanics, in guide dog training one of the most important jobs in arrangements to allow the drivers to technicians, fitters, body- the local community. Thousands of get top-up English language lessons builders and cleaners after people rely on them every day and at UK colleges as part of their Young guide dogs and their handlers working life ahead. working for a Ford dealer in we invest a lot of time and ongoing training and development. can now travel free on buses operated Mike Bird, spokesperson for Guide the area. resources to get the right people on by Stagecoach across the UK. Dogs, said: “It’s fantastic Stagecoach is Engineering Director for board. The agreement, designed to boost working with us on this as it really will Stagecoach South Richard “We have a major ongoing If you have been up to something the training and development of guide help the dogs get used to travelling on Alexander thanked David for campaign in the UK to attract that has helped your local community dogs, stems from a partnership buses.” his dedicated service and hard people to a career in bus driving then we’d like to hear about it. between the company and the Guide Les Warneford, Managing Director work over the years: “It would with attractive pay and conditions Dogs for the Blind Association. of Stagecoach UK Bus, said: “We want Your On Stage contact is listed on p2. be impossible to estimate how packages. Those measures are Guide dog pups spend their first to make our buses as accessible as many repairs David has proving successful and will be year with volunteer walkers and one of possible and hope this will help carried out on our fleet enhanced by an additional stream the tasks is to familiarise them with support our blind and partially-sighted A tale following accidents, acts of of skilled, experienced employees public transport in preparation for the customers.” to tell? vandalism and the wear and from Eastern Europe. tear the vehicles face as they service the 30 routes we operate in the Basingstoke area.” Memory Lane proves a popular route

To celebrate 100 years of public taken over by Maidstone & District transport in Hastings, Stagecoach Motor Services, whose livery repre- created two special liveries based on sents how the buses would have the old colour schemes of the looked 50 years ago. Maidstone & District Motor Services Stagecoach Operations Manager Ltd and the Hastings Tramways Tom Bridge said public response to Company. date had been fantastic and many local The two , which were residents instantly recognised the ‘new’ taken out of service for two weeks to old liveries. be repainted, will be seen on up to 15 He added: “We hope people in the routes between Hastings and sur- region will enjoy our trip down rounding towns and villages over the Memory Lane. We are proud to follow next year. the tradition of providing an important The Hastings Tramways Company public transport service to thousands David admires his handiwork before retiral. started trading in 1905 and was later of people who use our daily services.” Stagecoach coach builders Mark Suggitt (left) and Ian Cheer with the celebration buses. Autumn 2005 5 Supertram hike hits Drivers dump the car a grand total

Congratulations go to the team from Stagecoach Supertram Maintenance, which made great and head to the coast strides in supporting a cancer charity. Andy Laver, Emma Laver (Andy’s daughter), Katie Fulcher, olidaymakers let the Terry Lee, Kevin Roulson, Mick Htrain take the strain Simmons and Stuart Cooper this summer as they walked the grand total of 24 uphill headed for the English and downhill miles in the Three Riviera on board Virgin’s Peaks Walk. The great effort was for a state-of-the-art Voyager worthy cause and raised over trains. £1,100 for the Every day, 11 ran to Macmillan Appeal. and from Plymouth, with five con- tinuing to Penzance, and one serving Torquay and Paignton. The additional Summer Saturday holidaymaker services to Torquay, Paignton and Newquay again proved popular, with the Manchester to Newquay service running almost full every weekend. By the end of the holiday season around 16,000 passengers had used these extra services, keeping at Stepping out – the Three Peak walkers hand least 4,000 cars off the South West’s over the results of their charity walk. roads. In a further boost for Virgin, the CrossCountry network is heading Marathon trek towards the 20 million passenger mark for the first time ever this year, double the number carried to support when Virgin began in 1997. Between June 26 and July 23 a Cancer Relief staggering 1,562,000 passengers used the service. Last year almost Four Stagecoach Wales employees 2.5 million people travelled Virgin Stagecoach Manchester Inspector Dave McGuire, bottom right, with members of the Operation Area team. from Brynmawr Depot recently CrossCountry through Bristol to completed a 290-mile walk in aid of reach Somerset, Devon and Macmillan Cancer Relief. Cornwall. United effort puts brakes on criminals John Rees, Simon Roberts, Nick Boosted by the demand for short Morton and Keith Powell started break holidays and long weekends, their journey on August 6 from the Virgin CrossCountry runs direct Police and public transport companies in Manchester have by Allie Johns coast to Abbotsbury in services to Torbay and Weston- joined forces to help reduce crime on the city’s buses and Dorset to raise funds for two Super-Mare and also links visitors trams. Macmillan nurses. with many of the connecting Operation Area – part of the STOPS (Safe Travel On has reduced the mobility of criminals operating in and around One of the nurses will specialise services to Exmouth, Looe, Public Systems) initiative – involved Stagecoach Manchester north Manchester. It involved months of planning but is in lung cancer patients at Nevill Hal Newquay, Falmouth and St Ives. inspectors travelling with a police officer throughout the day already having a massive impact.” Hospital in Abergavenny, while the Virgin CrossCountry Managing and in the evenings. Stagecoach Manchester’s Managing Director, Mark other will work as a palliative care Director Chris Gibb said: “Since Initial results saw crime on buses and trams halved, Threapleton, added: “Feedback from customers and staff has nurse at the Royal Gwent in relaunching CrossCountry with new compared with the weeks leading up to the initiative. A total been extremely positive in terms of results, general reassur- Newport. trains and a regular interval of 135 fines were issued to non-paying passengers and more ance and from a crime deterrent perspective. Colleagues from Brynmawr timetable in 2002, demand has than 11,000 people were spoken to during the week. “We will continue to work closely with Greater depot joined the big-hearted continued to grow and we are on Detective Inspector Mark Bell, who is spearheading the Manchester Police with regard to this and all other crime pre- walkers for the Cotswold section on target to carry more than 20 million initiative, said: “We’re pleased that this partnership approach vention initiatives.” August 14 and again in Dorset on passengers this year.” August 21. African choir A fishy tale tempts students climbs aboard The 2005 campaign to promote Unirider – the to buy the tickets earlier. student Stagecoach pass available in a number We think the upward trend will continue and for UK tour of locations around the UK – is now well under are sure the quirky Ted animation will prove a way. big hit with students! is hoping The concept is the same as last year, ‘U need to keep the Pearl of Africa Choir in to get out more, U need Unirider’. However, this fine tune as it tours around the UK year there will be more focus on our advert star this autumn. Ted the Goldfish. The choir arrived at Heathrow In fact, to encourage more online sales, Ted on September 16 and will be per- has his very own fishy animated adventure on forming in concerts throughout the our website www.stagecoachbus.com country until October 31. Ted has certainly had a big impact on Stranraer depot has provided a national online Unirider purchases so far, as complimentary coach for the August Unirider sales were up 84% on last year. singers and local drivers Kevin Way to go Ted! McNair, Mark Allison (both Traditionally the majority of Unirider sales Stranraer depot) and Kenny Hope take place in August and September before the (Dumfries depot) will be dedicated start of the new academic year. As sales figures to driving the coach for the for September are not yet available, it remains to duration of the tour. be seen if overall online sales will be up or Ted the Goldfish gets ready to leave his bowl. whether students have been encouraged by Ted Ted’s page on the Stagecoach website. 6 Autumn 2005 Londoners unite to defy bombers

A graphic photograph of a bombed Number 30 Stagecoach bus has become the iconic and chilling image that epitomised the shocking terrorist attacks in London on July 7.Tragically, the daughter of one of Stagecoach’s own employees was among the 13 people to be killed in the blast.Three months after the bombings and the subsequent attacks on July 21, On Stage reports on how Stagecoach drivers George Psaradakis and Mark Maybanks have summed up the determination of Londoners to get on with their normal daily lives.

The bomb-destroyed No 30 bus in Tavistock Square in Central London. (Picture: Reuters/Dylan Martinez.) ‘Suddenly there was a bang, then carnage’

hen London’s Trafalgar tion. From the cheering and flag-waving to a Russell Square. Everything seemed to happen behind me,” said WSquare was packed on July 6 special fly-past by the Red Arrows, there was a Stagecoach driver George Psaradakis was the 49-year-old driver, who has worked with to hear the announcement of the mood of elation. driving his No 30 double-decker-bus in Central Stagecoach for nearly three years. city chosen to host the 2012 But by the time rush-hour was over the next London that morning on a route from Marble Despite the terrifying circumstances, which Olympic Games, no one could morning, the city was having to face up to the Arch to Hackney Wick. saw the roof blown off the bus, George’s first fall-out from a co-ordinated attack by four After the Tube bombings, his bus was thoughts were for his passengers. “I tried to have predicted the horrific suicide bombers that would injure more than diverted to cope with the thousands of passen- help the poor people,” he said. “There were events that would hit the capital 700 people and claim 52 innocent lives. gers coming out of the affected stations. At many injured people and at first I thought ‘how less than 24 hours later. Three bombs went off just before 9am on 9.50am, when the bus was in Tavistock Square, am I alive, when everyone around me is dying?’ London had beaten off strong competition underground trains just outside Street near King’s Cross, the fourth suicide bomber The police then had to take me away because from Paris to win the right to stage the biggest and Edgware Road stations, and on another struck. they were concerned there might be further event in world sport, sparking scenes of jubila- Tube train travelling between King’s Cross and “Suddenly there was a bang, then carnage. explosions.” Autumn 2005 7 The bombs that s ‘They won’t intimidate us and they won’t defeat us’ say drivers at the heart of London terrorist attacks

tagecoach driver George Psaradakis, whose No 30 Sbus in Central London was targeted by the terrorists, has thanked his colleagues for sending him messages of support. He said: “I have been very lucky. an important job and we are going to I am just relieved to be here and to continue to do that job as best we be able to see my wife and children. can. We are going to continue our Many other people have not been so normal lives. We are not going to be fortunate. I feel for the people who intimidated. I need some time to have perished and for their families.” recover from what has happened, but Stagecoach Group Chief Executive I want to get back to work with Brian Souter spoke for everyone at Stagecoach and see all the great the company when he said in a people at the depot.” statement: “Everyone at Stagecoach is Barry Arnold, Managing Director deeply saddened and shocked by the for Stagecoach in London, tragic events and our thoughts are commended the reaction of George very much with the victims and their and his fellow Stagecoach drivers: “It families. I would like to praise our says a lot about George that in such staff in London, whose reaction to terrible circumstances his first this awful event has been remark- thoughts were to help others. Our able.” drivers are true professionals and Following the bombings, a co- have done a superb job since the ordinated response effort swung into bombings. We are also very operation, involving the police, fire heartened that Londoners have got and ambulance services. Buses back on board the city’s buses operated by Stagecoach and other despite everything that has companies helped transport people happened.” injured in the bombings to local He added: “We have received hospitals in London. many messages of support from Despite the bombings, trains on Stagecoach colleagues and other the main overground rail network, transport operators right across the including South West Trains, kept country. In partnership with running. The excellent working rela- , the police and tionship between Transport for other key agencies, we are deter- London and London bus operators mined to work hard to ensure we was also able to ensure that a full bus deliver the best and most secure bus service was running in the capital services possible.” within hours after the bombings. One week on from the 7/7 George, who is originally from bombings, Britain observed a two- Crete, pledged at the time: “Myself minute silence to remember the and the other drivers in London have victims of the terrorist attacks. R w

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th sh p te Police search for evidence near the scene of the bus bombing. (Picture: Reuters/Toby Melville.) Forensic experts continue their investigations of the No 30 bus. (Picture: Reuters/Kay Pfaffenbach.) 8 Autumn 2005 shook our world…

Women comfort each other next to flowers laid in memory of victims of the bombings as two- minutes’ silence is observed in central London. (Picture: Reuters/Russell Boyce.)

Remembering the victims … Unbowed as bombers with dignity and determination “Everyone at Stagecoach is attempt second strike George Psaradakis, surrounded by his George, who was praised earlier in olleagues at Stratford depot, read out the week by Chancellor Gordon Brown deeply saddened Exactly two weeks after the 7/7 some time, but I definitely want to message of sympathy to the families when the two men met at the Transport blasts, four further attempted get back to work. “ f the 13 people who died when the and General Workers Union’s bi-annual bombings hit the capital on July 21. Mark, who has worked with omb exploded on the number 30 conference in Blackpool, added: “It is and shocked by Three underground trains and Stagecoach for 18 months, said that us. Tragically, one of the victims was good to be back with my company one bus were again targeted, at the time of the incident his hahara Islam, a 20-year-old bank Stagecoach, who have done all they the tragic although thankfully none of the immediate concern was for passen- worker and daughter of Shamsul could to help me through this difficult devices exploded. Failed devices gers on the bus. slam, acting Operations Supervisor at period. events and our were found on trains at Oval and He said: “I’m very thankful that I tagecoach’s Barking depot. “And it is good to have my union, the Warren Street stations, and on the got everyone off the bus successful- Filmed by television crews from BBC Transport and General Workers, Hammersmith and City line at ly. That was my overriding priority. nd ITN, George said: “A week ago I alongside me and my family as they thoughts are Shepherd’s Bush. I just did what I thought needed to ook my No 30 bus out from here on a have been all the way through our Stagecoach driver Mark be done. ourney which ended as a nightmare. ordeal. very much with Maybanks (38) was driving his No “Whatever they do, we are going “What happened to my passengers “As we stand together in silence let us 26 double-decker bus on a route to be back driving our buses. They nd to passers-by was truly dreadful. I send our message to the terrorists – you from Waterloo to Hackney when it are not going to beat us. We have a id what I could to help them. I send my will not defeat us and you will not break the victims and was involved in an incident in east brilliant public transport system and houghts at this time to the families of the us.” London. While no-one was injured the general public should keep on nnocent victims, especially my fellow Thousands of people attended a vigil their families” and there was only minor damage using it. olleague at Barking garage whose in London’s Trafalgar Square to to the bus, the outcome could have “We are going to carry on doing aughter lost her life on my bus. remember the bombing victims and been devastating if the device left what we are doing. It doesn’t matter “In today’s silence we remember thank emergency crews for their efforts. Brian Souter on the vehicle had exploded. how many times the terrorists try to hem. With quiet dignity and respect we Mayor of London Ken Livingstone said After the incident, Mark said: “It knock us down, we will get back up how our deep contempt for those who emergency services had been “magnifi- Chief Executive was a really frightening experience. again. We will be even stronger. lanted the bombs and those who mas- cent” and he praised Londoners’ “calm Stagecoach Group My family were just pleased to get They won’t intimidate us and they erminded them.” and courage”. me back home in one piece. I need won’t beat us.”

Autumn 2005 9 Brave drivers back behind the wheel Duo’s defiant pledge: ‘We won’t be bombed out of our buses’

wo months after the the horrendous incident of 7/7, Tbombings that shook London is safe to live in, to work in “That dreadful and to visit, so I invite all those nice London, brave people from overseas and Stagecoach drivers moment will elsewhere to visit our great capital George Psaradakis and and test our cosmopolitan hospital- Mark Maybanks were stay forever in ity, which is second to none.” back at work full time. George, a father-of-three, said: “I my mind and thank God for helping me come out What made their response even of that bomb-struck bus alive. more courageous was their decision heart” “I am deeply sorry for some of to face up to their fears and drive my passengers who were not so on the routes that had witnessed the fortunate when they travelled on terrifying attacks. George Psaradakis that fateful and macabre journey on George admitted it was “a bit July 7.” daunting” to go back behind the Colleague Mark said he was wheel after the bombing and he pleased to be back at work and said it was “poignant” when he But he added: “I feel ready to go made a defiant statement against passed the site of the devastating out there and serve our glorious the terrorist threat: “We shan’t be explosion. heroic and beautiful capital. Despite bombed out of our buses. It is going to take a lot more than that to stop the bus drivers of London working.” He said he had been “apprehen- sive” before returning to work. “But then again, it needed to be done. As I drove past the point of the incident I had a look around and realised I was still in one piece, and I just carried on. After that every- thing just flooded into place.” George, who had only recently returned to work following a heart attack when the terrorists struck, said that one day he would love to meet the passengers who survived. “I would really be pleased, because each passenger that steps into my bus is under my care and it develops some kind of affinity between me and them,” he said. “They seem kind of my relatives, so what happened to them deeply hurt me.” George said as time went by the deep hurt he felt the instant the bomb tore apart his bus might fade. However, he added: “That dreadful moment will stay forever in my mind and heart. It was a carnage and it has deeply affected me.” Both drivers – who were visited recently by Brian Souter who praised their courage – said they had wanted to drive the same Back behind the wheel: driver Mark Maybanks. (Picture: EMPICS.) routes to face their fears. “I wanted to drive the No 30 because I believe drivers. He said: “They are cracking them.” the place you fear you have to examples to Londoners, to the union Stagecoach has provided coun- conquer by going there,” said and to the company. It is very, very selling for both drivers and Ray George. difficult to imagine what they went White, Operations Manager at the Mark added: “Stagecoach said through, particularly George when Stratford depot, said the men were we don’t have to drive these routes, his bus was blown up behind him, model employees: but we have said no, we will go and Mark when he found that device “You look at George now, and back to the same routes because we on his bus. that is George all the time – smartly are not scared to do them. If you “I can’t begin to imagine what dressed and very, very polite in don’t face your fears they will goes through your mind but they whatever he says. If I could clone defeat you.” have demonstrated, with the support him and have 552 of him it would be Eddie McDermott, regional of Stagecoach and the T&G, they are good. Mark’s situation was different secretary of the Transport and determined to come back to work to George’s but he is a very nice General Workers Union for London and do the job for Londoners and person and they are both very good Driver George Psaradakis returns to the No 30 route. (Picture: EMPICS.) and the South East, praised both the travelling public and all credit to employees.” 10 Autumn 2005 Clean start Awards panel praises on the open road one smooth operator Former Nuneaton depot cleaners Joe Wilson and Jamie Bateman are swapping brushes and dusters for running cards and ticket machines. The pair are training as bus South West Trains leaves everyone else in its tracks drivers under Stagecoach in Warwickshire’s current recruitment outh West Trains has by Simone Spinks drive for its Nuneaton operation. Scome up trumps again at Around 12 people are currently either on the training bus, going the prestigious through induction or awaiting a pro- Awards 2005. and hanging baskets adorning the visional licence, and many more are The company won four awards station, complete the picture for visitors. at the interview stage. including the coveted Passenger Yeovil Junction was highly commended Nuneaton’s increased require- Operator of the Year honour. in the same category for its all-round ment for service vehicle drivers The past year has seen the success- service. follows the success of the full launch of a completely new Richmond and Central megabus.com operation, which is timetable, the introduction of a £1 billion stations were also highly commended in run from the depot. fleet of new Desiro trains and the trans- the category for Large Station of the Operations Manager Joe Davies formation of performance for passen- Year, with Godalming receiving the said: “The number of applicants we gers. same accolade for the Small Station of have in the system is very healthy The awards panel judged that the the Year. and the fact that two of our cleaners train operator was difficult to fault and And South West Trains scooped and shunters want to become drivers the Passenger Operator of the Year another award at the first-ever National is a positive step forward. award reflected a well-run business Community Rail Awards for Best “In my experience cleaners from top to bottom. Heritage/Conservation Scheme, in changing to drivers doesn’t happen South West Trains also won Project recognition of the Lymington Line very often, but we are happy to help of the Year for the massive recast of the Heritage Project. these two progress their 40-year-old timetable in December 2004. This includes the running of two Kick-off, from left, Steve Stewart, Jim Leishman and PC Steven Miller. careers. They have both been Judges described it as a smooth transi- specially refurbished slam door trains, offered driving jobs.” tion and a credit to all resulting in per- refurbishment of stations along the Joe (50) has been a cleaner formance breaking the 90% barrier on a route, including unique station signage, shunter at Nuneaton since January regular basis. and the longer term aim of securing the Floodlights focus on 2003 and Jamie (25) exactly a year In partnership with British Transport future of the line following the Strategic longer. In his current job Jamie Police (BTP), South West Trains also Rail Authority’s proposal to designate it works every night, including won The Sir Robert Horton Safety as a Community Rail Partnership (CRP) Saturday. route. midnight footballers Award for the second year running He said: “At the moment I only following a 20% drop in crime across Although the route is designated as a drive around the garage, but I enjoy the network. Two evidence gatherers heritage line, future opportunities are An innovative scheme designed to He explained Stagecoach’s backing it and am looking forward to going have been introduced on the network to already being explored, including inves- help young people avoid the dangers meant the Midnight League could be on the road. I’ll also be able to see obtain images from CCTV cameras that tigating the feasibility of a new station of being drawn into anti-social developed further alongside police more of my wife, Claire, and can be used in court to prosecute on the line to serve Lymington Hospital behaviour has been backed by and social services. daughter Ellie Jane, who is nearly offenders. when it opens in 2006. Stagecoach. Steven Stewart, Stagecoach Group’s four.” Winchester Station took the honours But success didn’t stop there as Ian Dunfermline Athletic’s Midnight Head of Media and Public Affairs, said: Stagecoach Nuneaton has in the Medium Station of the Year, with Faletto, Station Master Sway, was highly League offers 16 to 18 year-olds the “Stagecoach has a strong track record replacements for the two cleaner staff recognised as highly motivated and commended in the Outstanding Railway chance to play football at East End of supporting young people, and we shunters in their engineering depart- efficient. Large car parks, a ticket hall Staff Contribution and Yeovil Station Park stadium between 10pm and hope our backing for the Midnight ment. and catering outlet on each platform was also highly commended in the Best midnight. League will help local youngsters and plenty of platform seats, flower pots Station Buffet category. Research by SPL clubs has shown achieve their best. As well as staying fit that teenagers taking part are less likely and out of trouble, sport is a great way to offend and crime levels during the to learn important skills that can help Staff take centre stage league games have been reduced. them achieve success in life.” And Stagecoach has agreed to PC Steven Miller, from Police Just days after being named Passenger Its Centre Stage campaign, which has sponsor the initiative, which also has Community Team, added: “We’re Operator of the Year at the National Rail involved all customer service the backing of Fife Constabulary, for delighted that Dunfermline Athletic Awards 2005, the company was accred- employees, encourages staff to better the 2005-06 season. and Stagecoach are working together ited with Investors in People status understand and meet passengers’ needs. Dunfermline Athletic manager Jim in this project and local officers will South West Trains has made a huge Graham Eccles, South West Trains’ Leishman said it was vital that new continue to provide support.” investment in its employees to ensure Chairman and Managing Director, said: partners came onboard so the club The Midnight League started in they have the right skills, knowledge, “With all our employees, we recruit for could extend its programmes and September and around 60 youngsters experience and behaviour to provide a attitude, train them to the highest further benefit the local community. will benefit from each session. Jamie Bateman. first-class service to passengers. standards and develop them for life.”

Pupils from Bedwas Infants and Junior Schools triumphed in Stagecoach’s My Caerphilly compe- Justgo... and be inspired tition, run in association with a local newspaper. Six primary schools based along Stagecoach’s justgo… routes to Graig y Rhacca and selected – Bedwas Junior pupils Jack Greig Bedwas Juniors as the grand final winners are Senghenydd sent in more than 250 drawings, (10) and Adrienne Williams (8). pupils at those schools. photographs and poems depicting and describ- Jack produced a collage of all the places Managing Director of Stagecoach Wales ing why Caerphilly is so special for their pupils. and things that made Caerphilly special to John Gould said: “The number and quality of Entries were divided into two age categories him, including the town centre and castle. the entries exceeded our expectations and it – 4-7 year olds and 8-11 year olds – and 15 were Adrienne wrote a poem about her was incredibly difficult to chose a shortlist, let short-listed. A panel of judges, including Valleys favourite things to do in Caerphilly, such as alone the grand final winners. Radio DJ Steve Powell and Caerphilly Rugby eating candyfloss at the Big Cheese festival! “In fact, the children are so talented that Club’s Ian Carter, then chose the grand-final The grand prizewinners each received we have decided to display every entry on a winners. £100 plus an all expenses trip for four people justgo… bus in the autumn.” Carys Wegener (6) from Bedwas Infants won to London by megabus.com. the 4-7 age category with a colourful drawing of A dozen other children who made it on to Caerphilly castle. Carys wrote that the castle and the shortlist each won £25. Caerphilly were the best places in the world. The six participating schools earned £100 The Stagecoach competition brought out the best of the pupils’ The quality was so high in the 8-11 age of equipment from Stagecoach for entering, artistic talents. category that two grand prize-winners were but this rose to £500 for Bedwas Infants and Autumn 2005 11 Hartlepool Surfers lay a fast track to website success bids a fond People power has helped shape the visitors a year, so the need for easy meant including adjustable font sizing Head of Marketing, said: “This has new face of the South West Trains access to comprehensive travel infor- for different users’ needs. been a huge project and has taken website, which is now even easier to mation was becoming more apparent The updated site features a range some time as we really wanted to farewell use. to South West Trains. of new features and information offer the best website possible. The An online survey was carried out Tests were carried out once a including more information about fast-paced world in which we live After more than 20 years’ loyal and more than 1,700 people put mock website had been created and ticket types, advice on buying the makes it important that we offer a service with Stagecoach North forward their views on what they the findings were considered in the ticket that is best suited to your straightforward website giving people East at the Hartlepool depot, liked and disliked about the existing final design. The Royal National journey and real time train running the information they need at their fin- Operations Manager Peter Clark site. Institute for the Blind was also information including London gertips, such as train running infor- retired at the end of September. The original site attracted nearly involved to ensure the development Underground service information. mation, buying tickets and looking at Peter, who had been in the 13 million hits and 105,000 unique of an accessible website, which Peter Owen, South West Trains’ places to visit across our network.” bus industry for 47 years, is greatly admired for his profes- sionalism, commitment and knowledge of the Hartlepool network as well as its history. His greatest achievement was overseeing the vast improvement in the Hartlepool fleet in recent It’s the perfect drive years. Indeed, Peter jokes that bus enthusiasts used to travel to Hartlepool from all over the country to view the archaic fleet in action. Now, with more than a third of the Hartlepool fleet for fans at the Open being low floor, the depot has definitely shed its old-fashioned image! Peter is a popular character Partnership approach opens up the Old Course to thousands who will be sadly missed throughout the whole of Stagecoach North East, and olf enthusiasts had an everyone wishes him a very Geasy route to The Open long, happy and healthy retire- thanks to a unique ment. Paul Livesey, who was previ- service organised by ously Assistant Operations Stagecoach in Fife and its Manager at the Stockton Depot, partners. has the unenviable task of As fans rushed to see Tiger following Peter as Hartlepool Woods and other golfing stars on Operations Manager. the fairways, the Golflink service “We welcome Paul to his new helped them get there on time and home and wish him every hassle-free. success in his new role,” said The service, organised by Fife Stagecoach North East Marketing Council, Fife Constabulary and the Manager Kate Williams. British Transport Police, in conjunc- tion with First ScotRail, GNER, Virgin Trains and Stagecoach, offered an integrated ticket that Study time allowed visitors to board a train at the B&B anywhere in Scotland and travel to a nearby station. Inside the village: Stagecoach buses line up to take people back to Leuchars station. A fleet of Stagecoach buses then took the fans to the heart of the action at the Old Course in St Andrews. Throughout the four days, almost 30,000 customers took advantage of the Golflink service, with another 16,500 using the Park and Ride facility. Stagecoach in Fife operated 52 vehicles, with 63 drivers and sup- Fast track: Police escorted convoy travelling on the ‘wrong’ side of road! porting staff taking part in the venture. by Lisa Henry Environment spokesperson, to The Open.” Operations Director Doug Councillor Jim Philp, added: “This Highlights from the event Mark Stott. Fleming said: “A tremendous has been an example of partnership included convoys of Stagecoach amount of hard work and effort has “Spirits were high amongst the working at its best. All the agencies buses, with police escort, travelling Driver Mark Stott capitalised on gone into this event and this staff and I think all involved had a involved pulled together to deliver along the wrong side of the road, his spare time during a loan spell positive outcome is certainly a really enjoyable four days.” a seamless, integrated service, proving that it really was the best in Leamington by studying for an credit to the company. Fife Council’s Transport & which was well received by visitors way to travel to the event! NVQ in his B&B. And within 10 weeks he had passed and decided to transfer permanently to the Stagecoach in Steve takes on new role Warwickshire depot as part of the driving team. Stagecoach South has appointed skills through theory, practical Former groundsman Mark, Steve Pannell to the role of Driver training and assessments. who began his Stagecoach career NVQ Assessor for Hampshire. Steve said: “The number of drivers in Torquay three years ago, said: Before his promotion, Steve, who volunteering for the part-time NVQ “It was a big decision to leave joined the company in 1987, was a course, which takes an average of six Torquay, but I have been made travel sales clerk, a driver and a con- months to complete, is increasing. to feel so very welcome in troller. “We now expect more than 30 Leamington. Based in Winchester, he will drivers based at depots in Andover, “It’s a friendly depot, which encourage and assess drivers who Aldershot, Basingstoke and has a close-knit group of drivers, take their NVQ Level 2 for Winchester to gain their NVQ this so I have already made a lot of Transporting Passengers by Road. year.” friends.” The NVQ is a bus industry recognised qualification, which builds on driving Promotion for Steve Pannell. 12 Autumn 2005 Service Name-dropping and skill sees Tony Nuneaton buses! at the top Newcastle Walkergate driver by Adam Rideout Tony Gibbons was named Public Transport Employee of the Year at the Evening Chronicle 2005 ike most towns of its size, Awards. LNuneaton has its fair He was nominated by the Hadrian’s Wall Tourism share of famous people Partnership for his outstanding past and present. commitment and customer Residents were recently invited to service skills on the AD122 come up with big names for three of service. Stagecoach in Warwickshire’s Network After beating two other Nuneaton Solo buses, in recognition of finalists, Tony received a glass people who have served the town. paperweight, an inscribed glass And after weeks of waiting, the memento and a generous new bus names have been decided. cheque. Larry Grayson, Dagwood and George And as an extra bonus, Eliot were chosen after hundreds of Stagecoach paid for a weekend local entrants cited the celebrity trio as away for him and his family. their favourites. Tony worked in the bus Operations Manager Joe Davies industry for some time before he said: “We would like to thank joined Busways in October 1993. everyone who took part in the compe- He has worked on the AD122 tition. We have had a fantastic service since its inception and response and are very pleased with the also works on megabus.com. names chosen by the Nuneaton public.” All three are local heroes, with Larry Grayson being best remembered for hosting The Generation Game and, of course, for his memorable catch- Sweet memories! Sam Wigley examines some of the items with Lindsay Atfield from Yesterday’s World. phrase ‘shut that door!’ In an ironic twist Dagwood, one of the other names chosen, was once named as one of Larry Grayson’s main Staff’s sweet blast from the past reasons for entering showbusiness. Dagwood was a favourite on the A stash of tasty treats dating back around 45 years has been Pascal Fruit Bon Bons, Lyon’s Double Hit and various comedy circuit and was well known in unearthed in a store cupboard at Folkestone Bus Station. brands from Bellamys the confectioners. All had price Nuneaton for wearing a flat cap in all Operations Manager Sam Wigley and her team discov- tickets attached showing pounds, shillings and pence. weathers. Tony (centre) displays his prizes with ered more than 100 tins, jars and cartons of sweets during Sam said: “We were astonished that so much of the stock Finally George Eliot, the male pen Personnel Officer Michelle Pike and a clean-up operation. Many items were in very good was still complete with contents inside. It was also well name of Mary Ann Evans who was Malcolm Bell, newly-appointed Operations condition and some remained unopened with the sweets preserved considering the sweets were well past their sell born in Astley near Nuneaton in 1857, Manager of the Slatyford Depot. still inside. by dates!” was the literary genius who penned It is believed the sweets were left behind by employees Keen to ensure the discovery can bring back sweet such works as Middlemarch and Silas of the former shop at the bus station, which celebrated its memories to the public for years to come, Sam contacted Marner. She has become one of 50th anniversary in March. As well as brands that are still Yesterday’s World in Battle and offered the stock to study Britain’s best-known authors and is still Catering popular today, such as Quality Street, Marshmallows, and display in return for a donation to Stagecoach’s fund- studied throughout the world today. Lucozade, and Cadbury’s Roses, there were also bygone raising for the Sittingbourne-based Demelza House Hospice The winners each received a year’s favourites including Dulcet Pastille Fruits and Jelly Fish, for Children. free bus pass on Stagecoach buses in for the Nuneaton. council

George’s 43-year One small step for mankind… one giant leap for the environ- ment. ‘temporary’ job By slashing the distance council employees in East Devon have to walk to work Driver George Glen has for a summer job.” He was from the bus stop, Stagecoach retired from Stagecoach in born and raised in nearby South West hopes to entice more Fife after a career spanning Colinsburgh, where he and people to use public transport. 43 years – not bad for his wife have lived for 12 The move means buses now someone who was only years. A party was held stop right outside the gates of planning to stay for a recently in village for East Devon District Council’s couple of months! George and many friends, main offices at Knowle in He was based the family and colleagues, Sidmouth. Aberhill depot for three including Operations The new arrangement should decades, from where he Manager Bill Renton, turned also benefit customers visiting drove special hires and out to congratulate him on the council offices. tours all over the UK. He his retirement. Those who live on the 157 returned to shift work three route – at Exmouth, Budleigh years ago. Party time: George Glen celebrates Salterton, Otterton and Newton George said: “I only his retirement with friends, family Poppleford – are now urged to joined the company at its and colleagues. take advantage and travel by bus Anstruther depot in 1962 (Photograph: Bill Hill, Pittenweem.) wherever possible. Autumn 2005 13 Wales takes to the bus with £1.5m investment

Driving instructor John Ellis. ot content with devel- Noping the fastest Instructor growing Welsh town network in Cwmbran, takes on new Stagecoach has launched new low-floor enhanced training post services in three other key towns and re-branded its John Ellis, a driving instructor at coach hire company. Stagecoach South, has taken on a Five new Solos were new role after being promoted to the launched in Caerphilly this specially created post of new driver summer on town services C, D, E, training trainer. F and G, which complements the John, who will be based at the 16 SLF Darts first introduced in depot in his hometown of , November 2004. Now, low-floor joined Stagecoach as a trainee driver vehicles operate on every one of in 2000 and became a Driving our town services in Caerphilly. Instructor in 2003. In August, Merthyr Mayor The new driver training Councillor Jeff Edwards and programme has been introduced to Councillor Brendan Toomey offi- provide those who pass their PCV ciated at Stagecoach’s launch of licence with more advanced training 14 low-floor buses on five before they join their more experi- Merthyr Tydfil town services. enced colleagues on the road. These are the first new buses Customer service, health and safety, in the town for around a decade disability awareness and dealing with and the vehicles, as well as the difficult situations are just some of the enhanced timetables, have Labour MP Ann Clwyd with John Gould at the launch. subjects within the training syllabus. already gone down well with pas- John said: “I still remember clearly sengers. the start of my on route driving after Leading Labour MP Ann Clwyd by Anthony Evans More than half of the Aberdare to welcoming many more people my basic PCV training. There is so joined fleet is now brand new, with onto our new low-floor services.” much more to being a bus driver than Managing Director John Gould enhanced services operating from Finally, the first coaches dis- the actual physical driving of the last month to launch 14 new Cynon Valley and am therefore Glynhafod, Aberaman and playing the new brand name and vehicle. The driver training Optare Solos in Aberdare. delighted that Stagecoach has made Cwmaman via Aberdare town distinctive livery for Phil Anslow’s programme will help our new drivers She said: “I’m always keen to this £1.5m investment in our local centre to Rhigos, Penderyn and former fleet of coaches are also face the daily challenges and enjoy see bus services improve in the bus services.” Merthyr. now in operation. In a clear their new vocation thanks to the extra All the new buses have been reference to Stagecoach’s local confidence training provides.” branded go2…. an offshoot of the heritage, the day trip and coach The Worthing depot already has a justgo… branding introduced for hire company – acquired late last team of 118 drivers to keep the fleet the Caerphilly kick-start. The year and based in Pontypool – is of 50 single and double-decker branding is similar but not now called Red & White Coaches. vehicles moving. An average of seven identical to reflect the ease of drivers each week are expected to access and variety in route fre- attend the new training as Stagecoach quencies. continues its driver recruitment John Gould said: “We’re If you have been involved with a programme. John will also be delighted to be making one of the community project then we’d like to involved with the assessment of biggest investments ever in public hear about it. drivers who take their NVQ Level 2 transport in South Wales. We Your On Stage contact is listed on p2. for Transporting Passengers by Road, believe that the combination of issued by the Qualifications and new low-floor vehicles alongside Curriculum Authority. enhanced timetables will make bus A tale travel an attractive and viable alter- to tell? Stepping down The distinctive livery of the Red & White Coaches. native to the car and look forward from the cab Double-decker delight as pupils take a tour Stagecoach West Scotland Driver John Payne retired from Dumfries depot in August. The bus depot in Dover played host to By pressing a button, they could John joined Stagecoach from some special guests recently when raise and lower a coach placed on Whitestar and operated local pupils, teachers and helpers from St hydraulic jacks and were also allowed services in Dumfries. He worked Eanswythe’s primary in Folkestone under a double-decker bus by for various companies in came visiting. climbing into one of the inspection before coming north. The day started with a ride on a pits. Before they went back to the special double-decker bus to the school, they saw the giant bus wash in Stagecoach South depot. On arrival, action. everyone was issued with hard hats “We actively encourage schools to and high visibility jackets before being see behind the scenes as, unlike gen- given a guided tour of the workshop erations before them, many of the by Bob Taylor and Harry Reid from the children rarely travel by bus,” said Bob engineering team. Taylor. “We receive lots of thank you On their tour, the children saw letters so we know that they really Eric Johnston, Dumfries Depot, John and engines being serviced and also refur- enjoy the visit.” his wife Pauline and Hugh Fowler, bishment work to repair damage Dumfries Operations Manager. caused by wear and tear and Pit inspection: Bob Taylor gives the pupils a vandalism. mechanic’s eye view. 14 Autumn 2005 Century adds to cricket club’s success

Stagecoach Bedford Cricket Club Peter Hardwick, Chris Hardwick, has won the Bedford Midweek Tony Panter, Cliff Dixon League fourth division title for (captain), Bal Momi, Paul the first time. Sampson, Ashfaq Shah, Alan A special mention goes to Farley, Farook Younis, Manazar Syed Safdar, who scored the Shah, Syed Safdar and Bob Auty. club’s first century since 1982, Any Stagecoach depot that recording a magnificent 140 runs would like to organise a friendly against village team Milton match next season should contact Bryan. Bob Auty, Club Secretary, on The Bedford side includes 01933 418054 or 07970 984935. Marie Wilson Marie drives Long service awards the NVQs North East Paterson, driver, Sunderland. 41 years service – Edward forward Congratulations to the following Davison, traffic inspector, Stagecoach people who have been Sunderland. Former full-time bus driver Marie recognised for their long service to Transit: 25 years’ service – Joyce Wilson is now steering a new the company: Aldridge, driver, Denis Bartaby, course…down the NVQ route. driver, Guy Bavage, driver, Marie has worked for Busways: 25 years’ service – Catherine Lowrie, engineering and Stagecoach in Warwickshire Peter Allan, driver, Leroy Lizbeth Price, driver, all Stockton; since 1998 and is one of only Carrington, driver and Colin Hamid Beheshti-Shirazi, driver, two NVQ internal verifiers for Garnder, engineering, all Clive Bowron, driver and Leonard the company’s Leamington, Walkergate; Diane Hunter, traffic Kirkup, driver, all Darlington; Allen Nuneaton and Rugby depots. admin, Stephen Johnson, driver and Sladen, driver, Hartlepool. With her NVQ Levels 3 and 4 William Gordon Palmer, driver, all 30 years’ service – John Bunn, under her belt, she has been an Sunderland. driver, Robert Kinsella, retired NVQ assessor for three years and 30 years’ service – John Blaylock, driver, Thomas Rusk, driver, and is now an internal verifier with a driver, Ronald Watson, driver, David Santookh Singh, driver, all Stockton; more demanding role in the Wright, engineering and Stephen Photo of Transit recipients at awards presentation on 23 June 2005, Crathorne Hall Hotel, Yarm. Terence Burke and Peter Stagecoach NVQ department. Humble, engineering, all Slatyford; Hargreaves, both drivers from Based in Rugby, she is partic- George Flood, driving instructor traffic admin, head office. 40 years Joseph McBeth, driver, Hartlepool ularly proud of her depot’s and Ernest Rutherford, driver, both 35 years’ service – Anthony Slatyford. achievement as its current NVQ South Shields; Munir Khalid, driver, Cassidy, head office; Brian Collison Retirees: 35 years’ service – pass rate is between 65%-70%. and Raymond Martin, engineering, Driver, Slatyford; David Maxwell, Mohammad Ibrahim, driver, She also praised Leamington both Walkergate; Colin Potter, driver, Walkergate; Micheal Walkergate. Staff tribute and Nuneaton which have driver, Sunderland; Kenneth Potts, Stanbridge, driver, Sunderland. 40 years’ service – Michael similarly achieved the 60% NVQ to popular pass rate – the target that has to Stagecoach West be reached by the end of the year. A total of 21 employees from colleague Any new Stagecoach in Cheltenham, , Ross, Stroud Warwickshire trainee is automat- and Swindon depots were recently Colleagues at Stagecoach’s ically put through the NVQ invited to a Long Service Awards Leamington depot are mourning system. Evening, attended by Bob Montgomery, the death of Delphin Campbell only Marie (39) said: “It’s now a Ian Manning and other members of the eight weeks after he retired on profession where long term it is Stagecoach West management team. health grounds. necessary to have a qualification The longest serving recipient on the Delphin had been a bus and such as an NVQ in passenger night was Clive Norman, who celebrat- coach driver for more than 40 transport. I am now qualified to ed 45 years loyalty to the bus industry. years, including service with the check assessors as well as candi- Clive joined as a conductor in 1961 and former Midland Red and latterly dates.” is currently the scheduler at Gloucester with Stagecoach in Warwickshire. Marie still keeps her hand in Head Office. Two other recipients – Assistant Manager Surj Bhullar at driving – during school terms John Copeland of Gloucester and Phil said colleagues were stunned by she does a run in the morning Toumine of Cheltenham – also Delphin’s death in Walsgrave and then carries out her NVQ managed to clock up an impressive 40 Hospital, Coventry. assessor duties in the afternoon. years service respectively. Surj said: “Driving was his life and he was so well known in Warwickshire. Delphin was a very happy character with an infectious laugh and was extremely popular UK Bus apprentices shine with his colleagues. The entire depot will miss him and his trademark black cap.” The UK’s top three first-year (Stagecoach Devon) who was apprentices in the UK shone at third. the Stagecoach UK Bus Les Warneford, Managing Next stop… Apprentice of the Year Awards in Director, presented trophies and Manchester. prizes before the 85 guests the altar Open to those who attend S & enjoyed dinner accompanied by B Training Ltd, the event proved samba drumming. Congratulations go to Cheltenham especially memorable for overall Representatives from S & B Operations Manager Sarah Allman winner Mark Larnach (Stagecoach Training Ltd, Go Skills and the and Stagecoach West’s Commercial Bluebird), Nathan Stafford Learning and Skills Council also Manager Rupert Cox, who recently (Stagecoach East Kent and attended and commented on the announced their engagement. Hastings), who took second calibre of the apprentices they The happy couple hope to tie place, and Glenn Etherington encountered during the evening. the knot in summer 2006.

Autumn 2005 15 On a wing and a prayer… Island tour

Daring Stagecoach colleagues threw After training with their instruc- caution to the wind recently by tors at Headcorn Parachute Club, proves a star taking part in a charity tandem they were fully prepared for the task parachute jump 12,000 feet above ahead but were forced to wait a attraction Headcorn Airfield in Kent. nerve-wracking nine hours for their Operations Director Phil jump because low clouds hampered Medlicott (), Marketing visibility. Assistant Stacey Hall () However, Phil added: “It was and Ashford-based driver Chris well worth the wait! There is no Gawler – all ‘virgin’ parachutists – other experience like it and I think were the only three out of 1,000 its fair to say we would all like to employees in the south east to take have another go in the future.” up the challenge. And their bravery earned them £1,000 for Kent Exhilirated! Stacey, Phil and Chris Gawler People’s Trust. after their daring jump.

The Arran Grand Island Tour has increased its VisitScotland Tour Grading from three to four stars thanks to the high standards experi- enced by a tourism industry grader. Stagecoach West Scotland has Long-serving buses been involved in the Visitor Attraction Scheme for more than five years and is continually striving to improve its Arran Tours to offer the best experi- ence possible for visitors to the island. Key areas that led to the extra star retire to the sun! include new eye-catching livery, an informative promotional flyer and a warm welcome from the driver. hildren on a remote Ctropical island will Late night soon be going to school in style after Stagecoach treat for NZ sent two of the retired Mercedes Benz revellers 0305 city buses to Fiji’s Rabi Island. On the way to Rabi Island. Loading on to MV Clubbers in Rugby will have access The ‘Three Pointed Star’ buses, Southern Moana, Port of Auckland. to buses up to 3.30am as a pioneer- which have been an icon on ing travel scheme gets under way this Auckland’s streets since the early month. 1970s, saw their final day of duty Spearheaded by Stagecoach, in July. town centre management, the The last of the buses to retire borough council, police, pubs and from scheduled service was gifted clubs, the venture will see early to Auckland’s Museum of morning bus times extended by two Transport and Technology by hours on certain routes for Friday Stagecoach NZ and sits with other and Saturday revellers. fine examples of the city’s Off-loading Suva, Fiji. Where is the tropical The first weekend will be free and transport history. Swanson driver George Simon at the wheel of the last 0305 in service. sunshine? thereafter a flat fare of £2 per bus ride The Mercedes set a new will apply. standard with automatic transmis- by Dennis Elliot public donations bought the other. riddled with rust and frequently Vehicles operating the late night sion, power steering, low floor, The buses were repainted, one breaks down, leaving children service – a first for Rugby - will be wide doors and air suspension. red and one blue, at the Swanson facing a two-hour walk to school. fitted with CCTV and driver screens. George Simon, who drove the Depot workshop and suitable Stagecoach NZ Marketing One route will take people from bus on its final route, began his the old girl go. If I had the choice signage was also applied. Manager Russell Turnbull said: the town centre to Woodlands, bus-driving career in 1973 just as I’d drive this bus every day as it was The journey took them from “They are good buses to send away Hillmorton and Abbot’s Farm and the first of 300 brand new 0305 a great vehicle.” Auckland to Suva, where they were as they were made to last. I have no another route will serve Brownsover buses arrived. Stagecoach NZ donated one of barged to the island to replace the doubt they will be well looked and Bilton. He said: “It will be sad to see the two buses heading to Fiji, while existing bus, which is unreliable, after.” COMPETITION A scent of occasion

For those who missed out, we have another competition to mark the company’s silver Winners book a prize for Stagecoach’s anniversary anniversary. This time, we have 20 specially-produced scented candles to give away. The candles, On Stage has been snowed under with entries for Mason, Sudbury, Suffolk; Michelle Santry, embossed with a Stagecoach 25th anniversary logo, are enclosed in a presentation box. our competition to win copies of a new book Sewickley, Pensylvannia, United States; Peter Hill, To win, just answer the following question: produced to mark 25 years of Stagecoach. Wellington, New Zealand; Karl Johnson, Porth, The hard-back book, written by transport jour- Wales; Alan Bowers, Twickenham, England; John How many people are employed by Stagecoach across the globe? nalist Doug Jack, charts the history of the company Graham, Whitehaven, Cumbria; Haylee Morris, from its foundations in Perth in 1980 through to , Cumbria; Charlie Campbell, Montrose, Is it: the present day. Scotland; Peter Medley, , England; Andrew a) 20,000 b) 30,000 c) 40,000 Full of glossy colour photography from Oxley, Winchester, Hampshire; Shelagh Choppen, Stagecoach’s bus and rail operations around the Newcastle, England; David Smith, Worksop, Send your answers on a postcard to: globe, the book also features a foreword from co- Nottinghamshire; John Bogle, Carlisle, England; The Editor founder and Group Chief Executive Brian Souter. Paul Barrett, Guildford, England; Mike Webster, On Stage We had 20 copies of the book to give away and Ontario, Canada; David Maher, Newcastle, Stagecoach Group all you had to do was answer the following England; John Abbott, Eastleigh, Hampshire; Hugh 10 Dunkeld Road question: In what city and year was Stagecoach McCreadie, Dumfries, Scotland; and Matt Birkin, Perth founded? The answer, of course, was Perth, Ryde, , England. PH1 5TW Scotland, in 1980. Congratulations to our winners, who will From the dozens of correct entries, the winners receive their books in the post in the next few The closing date for entries is November 31, 2005, and the Editor’s decision is were: John Colwill, Urewa, New Zealand; Michael weeks. final. Good luck!

16 Autumn 2005